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Transcript of Project Report Indian Wedding
A Project Report On
Indian Wedding
Of
Marwari and Muslim community
Submitted by –
Prasad Mahajan
Khushboo Murgai
Onkar
Saurav Sharma
Dhananjay
Meghna
From
MBA Div A
To
Prof. Sarita
On
22nd August, 2013
1 | P a g e
Acknowledgement
We owe a great many thanks to a great many people who helped and supported us
during this project.
My deepest thanks to the Guide of this project Professor Sarita, for guiding and
correcting various documents of mine with attention and care. She has taken pain to go
through the project and make necessary correction as and when needed.
We would also take this opportunity to thank our friend Mr. Mohsin for his useful
guidance for our project work.
We would also thank my Institution and my faculty members without whom this
project would have been a distant reality. We also extend my heartfelt thanks to my
family and well wishers.
2 | P a g e
INDEX
Sr. No.
PARTICULARSPage No.
1 Introduction of Nostalgia Event Managers 4
2 Indian Wedding Traditions 5
3 Hindu-Muslim Marriage 12
4 Rituals In A Marwari Wedding 16
5 Rituals In A Muslim Wedding 24
6 Nikahnaama 28
7 Saptapadi - Long Form 29
8 Bibliography 31
3 | P a g e
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Marriage is a singular moment in the history of a person, marking a new beginning for
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4 | P a g e
Indian Wedding Traditions
One billion people, more than 1600 spoken languages, 28 culturally different states, over
9 religions, one country – India defines diversity. This diversity, seen in every realm of
Indian life starting from food & clothing to customs & traditions, is reflected in Indian
marriages as well. This project is a humble effort to give a glimpse into a colorful and
cultural extravaganza – the Indian wedding. We are restricting to Hindu Marwari and
Muslim weddings in this article.
In our culture, marriage symbolizes not just the sacred union of two individuals, but of
the coming together of two families and extended families as well! Their level of
involvement is so profound that typically the family decides the bride/groom. In fact,
even till a few decades ago the bride and the groom saw each other for the first time only
on their wedding day.
This trend has changed in urban areas, and in the present day, youngsters have a better
say in choosing their life partner. Families search for eligible partners for their children
through word of mouth or marriage priests primarily.
However with the internet revolution in India online matrimonial sites are also becoming
quite a hit! Arranged marriages are strictly intra-religion and intra-caste. Compatibility of
the couple is assessed on the basis of horoscopes, and if good, then an alliance is sought
for. In urban areas, the couple goes a step further to interact and see if their interests and
natures match. If the alliance is agreeable to both parties, they proceed to plan for the
engagement ceremony and the wedding.
Though arranged marriages are still the norm, love marriages are becoming a common
occurrence these days, predominantly in urban areas.
5 | P a g e
Months before the wedding an engagement ceremony, known as Mangni (in North India)
or Nischitartham (in South India), is held. The two families meet to perform rituals to
make the engagement official. A muhurat (auspicious date & time) for the wedding is
decided based on horoscopes. The couple is then blessed by elders of both families, and
is given gifts including jewelry and clothing by their new family. In certain traditions,
engagement is marked by the exchange of rings between the bride and groom to be.
Indian engagement ceremonies are very elaborate and vibrant, a sort of prequel to the
main wedding, involving close friends and relatives. The period between the engagement
and the marriage is one of great excitement and anticipation for both the bride and groom
to be. It is marked with a lot of fun-filled activities, with both families getting to together
to plan the wedding, to shop, and getting to bond.
Pre-Wedding Ceremonies
Traditional Indian weddings last a week, and start with pre-wedding ceremonies. Haldi is
a ritual holy bath during which turmeric (Haldi), oil and water is applied to both the bride
and groom by married women. This is followed by Mehendi ceremony, during which the
bride’s hands and feet are decorated with intricate patterns by the application of Henna.
On a lighter note, it is believed that, deeper the color of the mehendi (henna) stronger is
the groom’s love for the bride. With foot tapping music and dances, this ‘ladies-only’
party lends a break from the otherwise more ritualistic ceremonies. When the bride goes
to the groom’s house after the wedding, she is not expected to perform any housework
until her mehendi has faded away.
Other important North-Indian pre wedding ceremonies include Sangeet, and Tilak.
Sangeet means music. As the name suggests, this function is an evening of musical
entertainment and merriment hosted by the bride’s family. The main significance of this
ceremony is that the bride is introduced to all the members of her new family. As a part
of the Tilak ceremony, vermillion or kumkum is placed on the forehead of the groom by
all the male members of the bride’s family. Kumkum is a sign of auspiciousness. Presents
are given to the groom and his family, requesting them to take care of the bride.
6 | P a g e
Janavasam is a predominantly south Indian tradition, where the groom is paraded around
the town on a chariot (or nowadays an open car!), the evening before the wedding. In
small towns and villages this event serves to show the groom to the people, so that if they
knew anything about the groom that had to be brought to the notice of the bride’s family,
they could do so. This is similar to the Christian tradition of the priest asking those
present, if anyone had any objection to the wedding.
Wedding Attire
Traditionally the bride wears a sari or a lehenga which is highly ornate with gold and
silver embroidery. The color of the sari or the lehenga is of great significance, and is
different for different communities. The colors generally considered auspicious for the
occasion are, red, yellow, green or white. Red is most common and it symbolizes
prosperity, fertility and saubhagya (marital bliss). The bride also dons elaborate and
beautiful ornaments primarily made of gold and precious stones. Her hair is plaited and
decorated with flowers and jewelry. In north India, the bride also wears a ghunghat (veil),
draped modestly over her hair as a sign of respect to the deities worshipped and the elders
present.
The groom wears a dhoti or sherwani which also has a lot of subtle but intricate
embroidery. The color of dhoti or the sherwani is usually white, off-white or beige. In
North-India, the groom also wears a turban with white flowers tied in suspended strings
called the Sehra. In some traditions, he may also sport a sword as part of his wedding
outfit. In most south Indian weddings, both the bride and the groom have a kajal (black)
mark on their cheek, to ward off ill omen and evil eye. Though the bride and the groom
clearly steal the show with their exquisite outfits, the families of the bride and the groom,
friends, relatives and guests wear very grand clothes. Thus, a typical Indian wedding is a
very colorful affair!
7 | P a g e
Wedding Ceremony
If one thinks this is a lot of rituals, wait till the big wedding day. The actual wedding
ceremony itself is around 3 hours long, not including many other smaller rituals before
and after the muhurat (auspicious time). The wedding is usually held at the bride’s home
or a wedding hall. The arrival of the groom is an important and fun-filled event. The
groom, dressed in his wedding attire, leaves his home to the wedding venue on a
decorated ghodi (horse) or for the more extravagant, on a decorated elephant! Along with
the groom sits his 'best man' usually a younger brother, cousin or nephew who acts as his
caregiver. However, these days, these customs are not seen any more as most grooms like
to travel by luxury cars.
The groom is usually accompanied by his family members, relatives and friends in a big
procession (Baarat) with a lot of pomp and show including music, orchestra, dance and
fireworks.
At the wedding venue, the bride waits for the groom, with a Jaimala/Varamala, which is a
decorated garland. Soon after the groom arrives, the bride and groom exchange garlands.
On a lighter note, it is considered that, whoever puts the garland first on their partner, will
have an upper hand in the marriage. Following this, the bride's parents and elder
members of the family welcome the groom and the guests. The mother of the bride
performs the Aarti when the groom enters the house.
The Baraat and Jaimala are primarily North-Indian traditions. In South-India, on the
morning on the wedding day, there is a ceremony called Kashi Yatra, during which, the
groom dressed simple attire, throws a fit (obviously a fake one), declaring that he has
decided to give up the institution of marriage to go to Kasi (Varnasi) to take up
sainthood. This is when the bride’s father/brother humbly requests the groom to choose
marriage over sainthood, convincing him that the bride will assist him in his subsequent
spiritual pursuit. The couple exchanges garlands following this event, during which both
parties carry the bride and groom making it tougher for the other to put the garland. This
is another fun event, eliciting a lot of laughter.
8 | P a g e
Another popular north Indian tradition is Baasi Jawari or Joothe Churana (stealing the
shoes). The bride’s sisters hide the groom’s shoes, and demand the groom money to have
them returned. Apart from all the fun, many pujas (prayers) are performed by the bride
and the groom on the day of the wedding. The bride does a Gowri puja (worshipping the
Indian goddess Parvathi), and the groom does a Ganesh puja (worshipping the elephant
headed Indian deity Ganesha), to gain their blessings, so that the entire wedding runs
smoothly without any hurdles.
Kanyadaan or giving away of the bride, is an important part of the main wedding ritual.
Kanyadaan is derived from the Sanskrit words kanya which means virgin girl and daan
which means giving away. This is performed by the father of the bride, where he gives
his daughter to the groom, requesting him to accept her as an equal partner. Unlike in a
Christian wedding, the bride and groom marry each other and the priest only facilitates
the marriage by reciting mantras or holy hymns, but doesn’t have the authority to declare
them married.
The bride and groom are considered wed when the groom ties a mangalsutram/thali
which is a sacred thread that symbolizes his promise to take care of the bride as long as
he lives. The groom ties three knots when he ties the Thali, symbolizing the gods
Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. The entire wedding is done around an Agni Homam
(sacred fire). Agni (fire god) is considered as the main witnesses to the marriage. The
bride and the groom then circle the fire seven times, in a clockwise direction, called Saat
Phere which signifies seven goals of married life which include religious and moral
duties, prosperity, spiritual salvation and liberation, and sensual gratification. The bride
leads the Pheres first and then the groom leads them, signifying equality of the two
partners and their determination to stand beside each other though happiness and sorrow.
Another interesting tradition is the Sapthapadhi which means taking seven steps together.
It is believed that if one follows seven steps with another person, it is considered as a
confirmation of their eternal friendship. Thus in a wedding this symbolizes that the bride
and the groom will keep up their friendship for life and also partake equally in both good
and bad times in life.
9 | P a g e
The wedding culminates with the groom applying vermillion or kumkum to the bride’s
forehead, welcoming her as his partner for life. This is the first time that kumkum is
applied to the forehead of woman, when the bridegroom himself adorns her with it. In
South-India, this is usually followed by the groom putting toerings on the bride. The
kumkum, the mangalsuthram and the toe-rings symbolize a married woman.
South Indian weddings also have a ceremony where the groom shows the Arundhati
Nakshatram (a subtle star in the Ursa Major constellation) to the bride. Historically,
Arundhati was the wife of Sage Vashishta, and was considered to be the chastest of all
women. It is believed that by seeing the Arundhati star, the bride will be as chaste as
Arundhati herself.
Some wedding traditions also include wedding games for the couple to lighten the mood.
In one such game they are to retrieve a ring from a pot of colored water, and this is done
thrice to decide the winner. In another game, the bride and groom work together, to untie
a ball of knots, using only one hand each. This symbolizes their perseverance in resolving
together, issues that might come up in life. Other games include breaking papad on each
other’s head, playing with a ball of flowers.
Food served during the wedding ceremony is traditional and vegetarian. A wide variety
of dishes are served. The types of dishes vary extensively from region to region. In
South-India, food is served on banana leaf.
Post – wedding ceremonies after the wedding ceremony is over; the bride is bid farewell
as she leaves for her husband’s house. This is a very emotional moment for the bride and
her family, as she is leaving her parent’s family to join her husband’s. In some traditions,
the couple goes first to the bride’s house, and after a few days leaves for the groom’s. In
olden days, the bride used to be carried to the groom’s house in a doli (palanquin). Upon
arrival at the groom’s house the newly-wed couple is greeted at the doorstep with Aarti to
ward off bad spirit. The bride then topples a kalash (metal pot) of rice with her right leg.
10 | P a g e
Following this, the couple enters the house, taking the first step with the right leg. In
some traditions, the bride steps into a plate of vermillion mixed in water, and walks down
to the prayer room. All this constitutes the grihapravesh (griha – house, pravesh – entry)
ceremony. The bride and groom then perform Satyanarayana puja (prayer) showing their
gratitude to the lord.
The bride and the groom’s side hold a reception for family and friends. They may
combine it with the wedding or may hold it separately. This event is non-ritualistic.
People come to offer their greetings to the newly wedded couple. With so much of color,
vibrancy, food, people, rituals, music, fun and frolic, the Indian wedding is truly a festival
in itself!
11 | P a g e
Hindu-Muslim Marriage
A marriage is not just the union of two individuals but, believe it not, a union of two
families and two communities. Historically, Islam and Hinduism were at odds for more
than 1300 years in India. Much of this history records the Muslim invasions of India,
repeated destruction of Hindu temples (e.g. Somanath in Gujarat), imposition of Jiziya
tax on Hindus and forced conversions to Islam. This history will inevitably have some
impact on interfaith couple’s life. Hindu-Muslim interfaith marriage with equality is only
possible if both spouses and their extended families are willing to share two religious
beliefs and follow each others’ practices without coercing each other later.
Here is all you want to know about your Hindu-Muslim relationship. It covers scriptures,
historical perspectives, practical issues, laws governing Hindu-Muslim marriages,
important 10 questions to ask and real-life experiences from other youths. It is hoped that
you will have a happy and long lasting married life even that is a Hindu-Muslim
marriage.
Interfaith marriage is one amongst the most fundamental sinful actions in Islam after
shrik, rebellion against parental authority and killing a person without any legal reason.
However, according to one recent survey, 45% of Muslims marry outside their faith in
America. It is a common practice that this “interfaith” marriage problem is solved by
conversion of the non-Muslim fiancée to Islam.
The Koran states "You shall not marry Mushrik women (idolatresses or who ascribe
God's attributes to other than Allah) unless they embrace the Faith. A believing slave
woman is better than a Mushrik woman although she may please you” Koran 2:221.
Hinduism views marriage as sacramental however Islamic Nikaah (marriage) is a
contract to obey Allah. A non-Muslim is expected to take Shahadah oaths before the
Nikaah. Shahadah is the declaration that there is no god but Allah and Prophet
Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
12 | P a g e
Associating partners (like Lord Shiva) with Allah, including worship of idols, offering
prayers or supplications to anyone, living or dead, is the greatest of all sins. No imam
will perform Nikaah without the Shahadah. Hindu wedding is not a valid marriage in
Islamic laws. A union of a man and a woman without a valid Nikaah is considered
adultery punishable by death. In short, for a Hindu, conversion to Islam before Nikaah is
a must.
Shahadah is an oath required to be taken by a non-Muslim to irreversibly convert to
Islam. Muslim Caliphates invited all Muslim civilians to be involved in defending the
Islamic state from attack of the non-Muslims. Religious conversion from Islam was
therefore conceptualized as a vital criminal violation that might be punishable by death
because a former Muslim would endanger the existence of all Muslims by allying with an
enemy of Islamr.
According to anecdotal evidence, most Hindu-Muslim marriages are performed by
Nikaah only and in a few cases by civil secular wedding. Nikaah is performed after
conversion of the Hindu fiancée to Islam and in presence of a very few relatives from the
former Hindu spouse. In a few cases, the Hindu marriage is also performed after the
Islamic Nikaah.
However, after conversion, this Hindu marriage is a totally superfluous oxymoron,
because it is a Muslim-Muslim wedding performed by Hindu priest in presence of all
Hindu Gods! Generally, in the Hindu ceremony Muslims relatives will not attend
because Gods other than Allah are being worshiped. At least as far now, there is no
fusion of Hindu-Muslim marriage rituals.
13 | P a g e
Islam has very strict requirements for marriage. The requirements are stricter for a
Dharmic (Sikh, Buddhist, Jain or Hindu) rather than for a Christian or Jew (People of
Book; Abrahamics). A Muslim may expect an intended Hindu spouse to:
Q? Convert to Islam by taking Shahadah oaths before Nikaah,
Q? Adopt a Muslim name,
Q? Agree to name children with Arabic names,
Q? Agree to have male children undergo Sunat (religious circumcision),
Q? Agree to have children be raised in the Islamic faith only,
Q? Not worship Hindu gods at home or have a murti of Lord Ganesh in your living
room,
Q? Not undergo a Hindu marriage ceremony,
Q? Not wear Hindu symbols, such as a Bindi,
Q? (Later on) put on a veil and
Q? Undergo Sunat (circumcision) before the Nikaah.
The Hindu spouse in relationship with a Muslim will learn some of these expectations
just before the wedding and most after the marriage. After years of being in a romantic
relationship, reluctantly accepting the religious conversion may be the only way of
averting a marital breakup.
If a proud Hindu wishes to avoid the religious conversion, choosing not to have the
Islamic Nikaah is the only option. However, issues will come up while raising children
in two faiths. It is easy for young children to get confused with conflicting messages. For
example, when you take them to a Hindu or Jain temple, you ask them to believe in,
respect and bow to several forms of God. But when you take them to a mosque, they
hear just the opposite, exclusive, and intolerant messages.
14 | P a g e
When confronted with such conflicting ideas, children may lose faith in any God or
religion. It is possible that later, you may be forbidden to practice your own Dharmic
religion so that the children would not learn and follow it. Also, your Muslim spouse or
his/her family may not like to be part of a Hindu religious activity while at your parent’s
home. When your fantasy love period ends and it transformed into a routine married life,
then these issues will become sore points in your life.
Hindus do not proselytize and there is no requirement for a non-Hindu to convert to
Hinduism before getting married. In most cases, the Muslim may try to convince the
Hindu intended spouse to convert to Islam (by Shahadah) just because that is a must
requirement of Islam, however, the Muslim does not have to reciprocate because that is
not a requirement of Hinduism.
Actually, formal religious conversion to Hinduism can be done and the Muslims should
be given that option to be fair to both to demonstrate interfaith relationships with
equality!
Interfaith relationships should be based on mutual respect for both faiths, and marriage
should be solemnized without imposing religious conversion on a spouse. After
marriage, both spouse’s faiths should get equal respect and consideration in home life and
raising children by finding their own solutions to the irreconcilable differences between
the two religions.
15 | P a g e
Rituals In A Marwari Wedding
Engagement (Tika) Ceremony:
Engagement ceremony takes place at the home of the groom. The ceremony makes match
making official and binding for both bride and groom. Only the bride's father, brother and
other close relatives attend this ceremony. Ladies not even the bride accompany men folk
for the 'tika'. The ceremony is so called because the bride's brother actually applies a tilak
to the groom's forehead and makes the alliance or engagement official. A sword and other
presents including clothes, fruits, sweets etc are also given to the groom.
Ganapati Sthapna (installation) and Griha Shanti Ceremony
Ganapati sthapana & griha shanti takes place a couple of days before the wedding. A
havan is conducted by the bride/groom's family, which involves the installation of the
idol of Lord Ganesha
Bhaat:
Bhaat is a confirmation of this support. It is conducted by the groom's family and the
bride's family, in their respective homes.
The 'Mama' is called home so that he can be personally invited to attend the wedding. He
and his sister partake of cooked rice and moong (a lentil). She then feeds her brother
some sugar. He gives his sister a traditional tie-dye 'chunri' (dupatta) which she keeps
with her for always (literally for the rest of her life). The 'Mama' gifts the bride/groom
with their wedding outfits, jewellery, silver and cash. 'How much' again depends on each
family and their means.
16 | P a g e
Tel Baan/Chaak: A ritual bath
The Baan is one of the first important ceremonies, which involves the bride/groom and
continues until the day of the wedding. The actual ceremony consists of application of
turmeric and sandal wood paste to the bride/ groom. Custom goes that once the baanstarts
the bride and the groom cannot leave the house.
The baan at the bride's house is an elaborate affair. The bride dresses in a traditional
orange poshak and is then brought under a silken canopy, which is held with the help of
swords on the four corners by four ladies who must belong to the same clan as the bride.
She is brought to the ladies gathering, who then apply the paste to her. A similar
ceremony takes place at the groom's house as well, although it is not as elaborate.
Dholans (women singers with dholak) sing auspicious pre-wedding songs while the
ceremony is in progress. It is interesting to note that dholans are omnipresent in
throughout the Marwadi wedding celebrations. They are accompanied by the Shehnai and
the nagara players.
The bride/groom is 'prepared' for the wedding by all their close relatives - generally only
the women of the families participate in this ceremony. Pure vegetable oils, fresh milk
curds, henna and turmeric is made into a paste and applied on the face and arms and feet
of the bride/ groom by their close family members. This symbolizes the cleansing and
preparation of one’s mind, body and soul before embarking upon the path of marriage.
The groom/bride is then taken for a bath.
Mehfils:
Mehfils are the integral part of a Marwari wedding. These are usually held in the
evenings. Separate mehfils are organised for the women and the men. At the ladies'
mehfil, all the womenfolk gather at a central place in an enclosed courtyard or hall.
Dressed in dazzling dresses, they perform the ghoomar (a special dance done in a group).
The bride at the mehfil is given an important position to sit and watch the proceedings.
Of course, the men have their own mehfil, where singers perform and these are strictly all
male parties.
17 | P a g e
Mahira Dastoor
The mahira dastoor is yet another important ceremony, common to both the bride and the
groom's families. This ceremony is performed by the maternal uncle (Mama) of the
groom/bride, who, along with his wife and family, arrives with much fanfare, and is
received by the bride/groom's mother with the traditional welcome. The uncle then gives
clothes, jewellery, sweets etc., to the entire family and relatives. The ceremony signifies
that since at the time of a wedding there is considerable expenditure, it is the duty of the
brother to help his sister at her child's wedding.
Janev Ceremony:
Following the custom, the groom has to be dressed in saffron robes like an ascetic and
perform a havan before wearing the thread. The saffron robe signifies that the groom now
has two choices before him. That is either he renounces the world and becomes an
ascetic, or he accepts the institution of marriage and its responsibilities. After the havan is
completed and the thread given, the groom has to make a mock attempt to run from the
chains of marriage while the maternal uncle must catch him and convince his nephew
into accepting marriage.
Palla Dastoor:
On the day of the actual wedding, or maybe a day prior to it, the palla dastoor is brought
in by a few of the groom's relatives to the bride's house. The palla dastoor consists of
clothes, jewelry and gifts from the groom, which the bride has to wear during the
wedding ceremony.
Nikasi:
In a Marwadi wedding, the groom wears a padgi or headgear which is tied up by the jija
(sister's husband). The groom also wears 'pecha', 'kalgi' and 'tani'. A sehra either of
flowers or of pearls is tied on the pagdi. The sister in law (brother's wife) of the boy
applies kajal in his eyes. Later, groom's sisters tie golden threads to the reins of the mare
in a ceremony called 'vaag-gunthai'.
18 | P a g e
While the sister is performing the ritual, her husband holds the reins of the horse. As a
custom, the groom pays a visit to the temple first before proceeding to the girl's house.
Korath:
Groom is personally invited to come to the wedding venue. When the bride is ready and
the auspicious time for the wedding is at hand, the men of the bride's family (her
brothers, cousins, uncles etc.) go to the groom's home with a silver thali with rice,
moong, jaggery, coconut the invitation card on it. Traditionally, the pujari also
accompanies the family members. The groom accepts the invitation and prepares to leave
for the wedding venue with his 'baaraat' - family and friends.
Baraat: Groom leaves for the wedding venue
This is a very colorful and very grand procession. The groom is majestic in a heavy off-
white gold brocade sherwani - long formal jacket with Nehru collar - and long slim pants
or churidars (traditional fitted pyjamas). He wears a bright red or saffron color turban
called 'safa' and a necklace with seven rows of pearls strung on gold (satladi) or two rows
of emeralds (panna).
On his turban is a 'sirpench' a kind of brooch. The groom sits on a white mare also richly
decorated and armed with a sword- a Rajput tradition- and he sets off to bring his bride
home. He is accompanied by all his relatives also wearing red turbans and a band which
plays traditional music (although nowadays it is more popular film music that is
played!!).The younger members of the baraat dance around and the groom arrives in this
fashion at the wedding venue.
At the entrance of the venue, on the top , hung or tied is a sort of small shrine with 7 birds
carved on the top and a small murthi (idol) of Ganesh inside it. The groom hits this with a
stick and only then enters the wedding hall.
19 | P a g e
Toran:
The entrance of the girl's house is decorated with a 'toran'. As a custom the groom hits the
toran with a stick of neem. This ceremony is called 'toranachar' and is symbolic of
warding off the evil eye. After this the girl's mother does 'aarti' and 'tilak' to the boy.
Kanyadaan: Giving away the bride
This is the ceremonial giving away of the bride by her parents. The bride is on the right
of the groom. A gold or silver coin is placed in the palms of the bride and the same is
held by her father and placed on the groom’s hands saying "we offer you our daughter
hand in marriage. May she be a blessing and a lifelong companion to you".
Accompanied by appropriate prayers by the pujari water is poured over their joined hands
as they promise to live always in love. The bride then moves to the left of the groom and
he puts vermilion on her head in the parting of her hair.
Seer-Guthi: Putting vermilion on the bride
On a silver platter the bride is given rice, moong, jaggery, mithai (sweets) and cash. Her
hair is opened out and braided by her 'nanand' - husband’s sister, weaving into the end
mouli (red thread) which was blessed at the Naandi Ganesh Puja. The nanand then fills
the brides parting with vermilion (maang baran)...
The 'nath' a piece of jewelry worn on the nose - traditionally it is 2 pearls and a ruby -is
brought by the mother-in-law and placed on the brides lap. A brief puja is done to it and
then worn by the bride.
Jaimala:
The groom is escorted to a dais prepared for the Jaimala ceremony. As is customary in
Hindu marriages, the bride and groom exchange garlands. This is the first step of the
wedding rituals.
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Granthi-Bandhan:
The next step is 'granthi-bandhan' or tying the knot. In this the cloth tied around the
groom's waist is tied to the chunni of the bride. The ceremony is symbolic of the union of
two individuals. From this day they become one entity. Either the sister of the groom or
the priest does it.
Paanigrahan:
This is followed by the 'paanigrahan' ceremony. The groom takes the bride's hand in his
hand. It is again a symbol of this most pious union. It signifies that they will now be
together in good times and bad.
Pheras:
Then the groom and the bride go around the fire. This act is called 'pheras'. In a
Marawadi wedding only four 'pheras' are done in the mandap, rest of the three pheras are
performed at the entrance. Following the tradition, in the two pheras, the girl is in the
front and in the other two the boy leads
Ashwahrohan:
In the Ashwarnarohan ceremony the girl puts her foot on a grinding stone. The custom is
symbolic of steadfastness and symbolic of facing every challenge with courage. Then the
brothers of the bride puts 'kheel' or puffed rice in the bride's hand, which are passed to the
groom's hand and then offered to the fire. This ritual is symbolic of brother's happiness
and wishes of prosperity for his sister and her husband.
Vamang-Sthapana and Sindurdaan;
Later, in a ceremony called 'vamang-sthpana' the groom requests the bride to sit on his
left side, because the heart is in the left side of the body. This signifies that the groom is
accepting the bride and is establishing her in his heart. This is followed by sindurdaan
ceremony wherein the groom fills the bride's centre hair parting with sindoor or
vermillion. Sindoor is considered to be the most auspicious sign of a Hindu married
woman.
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Saptapadi:
Now, 'saptapadi' is carried out. The bride and the groom walk seven steps together. This
signifies that till now they have walked alone but from now on, they will always walk
together in synchronization. While observing the custom, the bride and the groom utter
seven sentences, which are in fact promises, they make regarding their conduct towards
each other. After this 'pherpatta' is done this signifies that the bride can freely proceed to
her in-laws house. After this the sister of the groom does the 'sargunthi' or adorning of the
girl's hair. This ritual signifies acceptance of bride by the groom's family.
Aanjhala Bharaai:
Following the 'aanjhala bharai' tradition, a bag full of money is put in the new bride's lap
by her father-in-law. This is his way of welcoming her into his family and also to make
her aware of her family responsibilities. The bride then distributes a part of this money to
her sister-in-law and her husband. After this the new couple get up from the mandap. All
the elders bless them when the couple touches their feet.
Paharavani:
The groom is then taken for 'paharavani' wherein he is made to sit on a new cloth or
asana and is welcomed by a Tika. He is also given gifts in the form of money, clothes and
other things for his personal use. A silver utensil or kachola is given to the groom's
father. The woman folk of the bride's side then take the groom for the fun-filled 'shloka
kahalai' session wherein he is made to recite poems or dohas. After this, the bride
worships the threshold (dahaleez) of her paternal home and breaks an earthen diya on it.
The groom and the bride are escorted out and they leave for the groom's house.
Vidaai: Bride leaves her parental home
This is a very emotional ceremony. The bride prepares to leave her parental home and go
with her husband to his home. Invariably tears are shed by all. The bride gets envelopes
of cash from all the elder member of her family. All the men of the bride’s family apply
tilak to the groom and give him envelopes of cash. The couple leaves in a car decorated
with flowers.
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Vadhu Pravesh: Bride enters her husband’s home
When the bahu-rani (daughter-in-law) arrives at her new home, she puts her right foot
over the threshold of the house into a tray of vermilion powder symbolizing the arrival of
good fortune. With both feet covered in red she now takes five steps and kicks over a
vessel filled with rice and coins to symbolize fertility and wealth in her home.
Of course there is some humor added to this solemn ceremony too… the bahu rani's
sisters-in-law sit on the threshold of the house refuse to allow their brother to bring his
new bride in unless he gives them some gifts or cash. He succumbs and is duly allowed to
bring his young bride into the home!!! :)
Pagelagni:
Pagelagni takes place the day following the grihapravesh. This is a ceremony where the
bride, still in veil, is formally introduced to all the family members of the groom who
bless her and give her gifts. The veil is then finally removed.
Other post - wedding ceremonies include the 'Chura' wherein the mother-in-law presents
bangles to the bride. While during the 'Mooh Dikhai', the bride gets a chance to get
acquainted with all her new family members one by one.
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Rituals In A Muslim Wedding
Wedding is a culmination of two souls and union of two families as per Islam. Muslim
weddings are celebrated with pomp and grandeur. Wedding ceremony is known as
‘Nikaah’ in Urdu. Most of the weddings are arranged and the boy and the girl have the
final decision in selecting their prospective bride or the groom. Muslim weddings are
conducted as per Islamic traditions. Pre-marriage rituals may differ slightly in different
countries. Muslims in India and Pakistan conduct the wedding as per the wedding rituals
in Middle Eastern countries. Muslim wedding rituals or Nikaah rituals can be broadly
divided in three categories, namely pre-marriage rituals, the wedding ceremony and the
post marriage rituals.
Pre-marriage rituals are conducted separately in the bride and the groom’s house.
Prospective bridge and the groom have limited interaction during these rituals. Once the
boy and the girl give the consent for the marriage, the pre-wedding rituals begin.
Ishtikara:
Before starting separate rituals in the bridge and the groom’s house, the Maulvi or the
religious head seeks permission from the Almighty to perform the wedding. This
tradition is known as Ishtikara. Ishtikara is usually held in the mosque, in presence of the
respective fathers of the bride and the groom and other senior members of the family.
After reciting, the verses from holy Quran and seeking the permission from Almighty, the
Maulvi and the father of the bride and the father of the groom have a consensus on the
marriage date.
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Imam-Zamin:
Now starts the bevy of events that are filled with fun and excitement. On a fixed day,
Groom mother and senior members from the groom’s family visit the bride and her
family. They carry fruits, dates, incense, perfumes and gifts for bride and her family
members. Groom’s mother also carries a silver coin or gold coin wrapped in a silken
cloth with her. This coin is tied to the bride’s arm and it signifies the marking of the bride
as the future daughter-in-law. This ceremony is known as Imam-e-Zamin. Imam-E-
Zamin is similar to the shagun ceremony in the Indian weddings. Few days after Imam-
Zamin, the date of Mangni or the engagement is fixed. Traditionally Mangni involves
exchange of gifts between the bride and the groom’s family. In the modern day, Muslim
bride and the groom may also exchange rings to mark the engagement.
Both the parties make themselves busy in the wedding preparation after the Mangni. In
the days to come, bride is pampered by her friends and relatives. Traditionally, Muslim
brides were bathed in essential and aromatic oils to make their skin soft and smooth.
Jasmine extracts are applied to the bride’s hair to add luster and fragrance to her hair.
Special food and bride’s favorite dishes are cooked to pamper her. This period also
involves the shopping frenzy. The bridal lehenga or the wedding outfit is chosen by the
mother in law and is presented to the bride along with jewelry, perfume, dates, and fruits.
Now there pre-marriage rituals are in full force at the bride’s place.
Mehndi ki Raat:
Mehndi ceremony is organized two to three days prior to the wedding night. Mehndi
ceremony is one of the most exciting ceremonies in the Muslim Wedding. During this
ceremony, the family members of the bride revel in music, song and dance. A paste of
fresh turmeric is applied on bride’s skin by her family, relatives and friends. This is done,
in order to bring in natural glow to her face. Beautiful Arabic Mehndi designsare drawn
on bride’s hands and feet. The first dot of henna is applied by the bride’s mother on
bride’s palm. Family members also have Arabic Mehndi designs or intricate Mehndi
designs drawn on their hand.
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This ceremony is dominated by women. Bride is fed by her mother with her own hands.
Cousins of the bride might engage in fun and frolic and resort to teasing the bride about
the groom. Mehndi ki Raat is much awaited ceremony in Muslim weddings. Many
traditional Muslim families believe that the darker the shade of henna on the bride’s
hand, happier is her married life. Muslim brides do not step out of their house after the
Mehndi ceremony until the day of their wedding.
Mahr or Baraat:
This ritual takes place on the wedding day, the groom arrives at the bride’s house or the
wedding venue with the Baraat. Baraat refers to the marriage procession that includes
friends, relatives, musicians etc. On reaching, the wedding venue, the groom shares a
sherbet (sweet drink similar to juice) with the bride’s brother or her relatives. Bride’s
sisters and cousins resort to slapping the groom and his friends playfully with a bouquet
of flowers. Groom is then welcomed by the bride’s parents.
Nikaah:
Muslim wedding is presided by the Maulvi or The Qazi. The bride and the groom are
seated separately. Maulvi or the head priest reads the verses for Holy Quran. The bride’s
father or the Walis then offers the bride in marriage to the groom. The groom then
proposes to the bride. Maulvi conveys the proposal to the bride. The ritual of processing
is called Ijaab. The bride then has to convey her acceptance by saying ‘Qubool’. Ijaab
and Qubool forge the ceremony. After the Ijaab and Qubool ceremony, starts the
ceremony of Meher. Meher is the endowment offered by the groom’s family to bride.
The Meher cannot be less than 10 dirham. Meher is usually in form of cash, gold and
property. Bride and the groom then sign the Nikahnaama. Fathers of the bride and groom
also sign the Nikahnaama along with the Maulvi. Nikahnaama signifies the formal
evidence of the wedding ceremony.
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Once the marriage is solemnized, bride and the groom are bought together and seated on
the stage. The couple first visits the women guests. In Muslim weddings, men and
women are seated separately. The groom gives gifts to the bride’s sisters and relatives.
Bride also receives gifts in form of jewelry, silk and silver coins. After paying visit to
elders from both the families, the couple returns to its sitting place. Throughout the
ceremony, the head of the bride and the groom are covered with a dupatta. The couple
then recites prayers under the guidance of the Qazi. A copy of holy Quran is placed
between the couple when they are seated among the common guests. The bride and the
groom cannot view each other directly.
Ruksat:
After the Nikaah is solemnized, bride is bid farewell by her teary eyed relatives. This
ceremony is called the Ruksat. During the Ruksat, the bride’s father places his
daughter’s hand in the hand of the groom and tells him to be her protector and her guide.
Groom’s mother welcomes the bride in their new house. A copy of Holy Quran is held
over the bride’s head during the welcoming ceremony. Bride seeks blessings from the
elders in the groom’s family. The bride visits her home on the fourth day of her wedding.
She receives a warm welcome from her family and relatives.
Chauthi:
On Chauthi the bride visits her parent's home. It is the fourth day after the wedding, when
she visits the home of her parents. She receives a grand welcome from her family
members.
Walima:
Groom’s family hosts a wedding reception at a chosen venue on the fifth day of
thewedding ceremony. This reception is formally known as Daawat-e-Walima. Both the
families, relatives and friends join the Daawat-e-Walima; they celebrate the unison of the
couple, and wish them a happy married life.
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Nikahnaama
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Saptapadi - Long Form
The long form of the key Hindu wedding ritual, Saptapadi, starts with preface announced
by the priest, and thereafter followed by a series of vows the groom and bride make to
each other. They are as follows:
Priest's preface: The world of men and women, united in the bond of marriage by
Saptapadi, to further promote the joy of life, together listen with triumph
Step 1 Groom's vow: O!, you who feeds life-sustaining food, nourish my visitors, friends,
parents and offsprings with food and drinks. O! beautiful lady, I, as a form of Vishnu,
take this first step with you for food.
Step 1 Bride's vow: Yes, whatever food you earn with hard work, I will safeguard it,
prepare it to nourish you. I promise to respect your wishes, and nourish your friends and
family as well.
Step 2 Groom's vow: O!, thoughtful and beautiful lady, with a well managed home, with
purity of behavior and thought, you will enable us to be strong, energetic and happy. O!
beautiful lady, I, as Vishnu, take this second step with you for the strength of body,
character and being.
Step 2 Bride's vow: Yes, I will manage the home according to my ability and reason.
Together, I promise, to keep a home that is healthy, strength and energy giving.
Step 3 Groom's vow: O!, skillful and beautiful lady, I promise to devote myself to
earning a livelihood by fair means, to discuss, and let you manage and preserve our
wealth. O! dear lady, I, as Vishnu form, cover this third step with you to thus prosper in
our wealth.
Step 3 Bride's vow: Yes, I join you in managing our income and expenses. I promise to
seek your consent, as I manage our wealth, fairly earned, so it grows and sustains our
family.
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Step 4 Groom's vow: O!, dear lady, I promise to trust your decisions about the household
and your choices; I promise to dedicate myself to help our community prosper, the
matters outside the house. This shall bring us respect. O! my lady, I, as Vishnu, take this
fourth step with you to participate in our world.
Step 4 Bride's vow: Yes, I promise to strive to make the best home for us, anticipate and
provide necessary things for your worldly life, and for the happiness of our family.
Step 5 Groom's vow: O!, lady of skill and pure thoughts, I promise to consult with you
and engage you in the keep of our cows, our agriculture and our source of income; I
promise to contribute to our country. It shall win us future. O! my skilled lady, I, as
Vishnu form, take this fifth step with you to together grow our farms and cattle.
Step 5 Bride's vow: Yes, I promise to participate and protect the cattle, our agriculture
and business. They are a source of yoghurt, milk, ghee and income, all useful for our
family, necessary for our happiness.
Step 6 Groom's vow: O!, lovely lady, I seek you and only you, to love, to have children,
to raise a family, to experience all the seasons of life. O! my lovely lady, I, as Vishnu,
take this sixth step with you to experience every season of life.
Step 6 Bride's vow: Feeling one with you, with your consent, I will be the means of your
enjoyment of all the senses. Through life's seasons, I will cherish you in my heart. I will
worship you and seek to complete you.
Step 7 Groom's vow: O friends!, allow us to cover the seventh step together, this
promise, our Saptapad-friendship. Please be my constant wife.
Step 7 Bride's vow: Yes, today, I gained you, I secured the highest kind of friendship
with you. I will remember the vows we just took and adore you forever sincerely with all
my heart.
After the seventh step, the two become man and wife.
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Bibliography
http://www.ourwedding.in/marwariweddingtraditions.php
http://www.ourwedding.in/muslimweddingtraditions.php
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_wedding
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_marital_practices
http://weddingsutra.com/blog/index.php/tag/indian-wedding/
http://www.maharaniweddings.com/category/indian-wedding-ideas/
http://www.royalweddingindia.com/
http://www.eliteweddingplanner.in/
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